🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mazda

Model:

323

Year:

1987

Product Name:

Mazda 323 1987 All Service Repair Manual Download

Chassis Codes:

BF Series (all body styles including hatchback, sedan, wagon, and coupe)

👋 Introduction

Market Position:

The Mazda 323 of the 1987 model year was a popular compact car, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and front-wheel-drive platform. It competed in a segment dominated by Japanese and American offerings, including vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Ford Escort. It was often lauded for its sporty handling in certain trims.

Market Position Usp:

The 323 offered a compelling blend of Japanese engineering quality, practicality, and for certain trims, an enjoyable driving dynamic at a competitive price point.

Competitive Analysis:

The 1987 323 (BF series) distinguished itself through its FWD platform (a departure for some earlier 323 generations), available AWD on specific models, and a range of engine options catering to different performance and economy needs. Its design was contemporary for the era, offering a practical yet engaging driving experience.

Key Features:

Front-wheel drive as standard, optional all-wheel drive, wide array of body styles (hatchback, sedan, wagon, coupe), fuel-efficient engines, independent front suspension, solid rear axle (or independent on some AWD models), accessible and practical interior.

Key Features Handling:

The BF generation 323, particularly performance variants like the GTX, was noted for its well-balanced chassis and communicative steering, offering a more engaging driving experience than many competitors.

📋 Manual Details

Coverage Areas:

North America, Europe, Asia, Australia

Page Count:

Est. 1000+ pages (typical for comprehensive service manuals of this era)

Manual Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Manual Type Subtype:

Comprehensive Repair Manual, including diagnostic and repair procedures.

Language:

English

Format:

Digital Download (likely PDF)

📖 Manual Coverage

Systems Covered:

Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (EFI/Carburetor), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Clutch, Manual Transmission, Automatic Transmission, Drivetrain (FWD, AWD variants if applicable), Steering System, Suspension System (Front & Rear), Brake System (Front Disc/Rear Drum, Rear Disc variants), Electrical System (Wiring Diagrams, Fuses, Relays, Lighting, Instrumentation), HVAC System, Body & Chassis, Interior Trim, Emissions Control System

Body And Chassis Coverage:

Detailed procedures for interior trim removal, door panel access, dashboard disassembly, body panel repair and replacement, glass replacement, bumper alignment, and chassis component inspection.

Electrical System Coverage:

Extensive wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, fuse box layouts, relay functions, component testing procedures, diagnostic codes (if applicable), lighting system repair, instrument cluster diagnostics, and starter/alternator testing.

HVAC Coverage:

Diagnosis and repair of the heater core, blower motor, A/C compressor (if equipped), refrigerant system, and ducting.

Procedures Included:

Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Engine Tune-up, Engine Rebuild Procedures, Fuel Injection/Carburetor Adjustment & Diagnosis, Transmission Removal/Installation/Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Brake System Inspection & Repair, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gearbox/Rack & Pinion Repair, Electrical Troubleshooting (including wiring diagrams), HVAC System Servicing, Body Panel Alignment & Repair, Emission Control System Checks & Adjustments

Procedures Included Engine Tuning:

Spark plug gap/replacement, ignition timing adjustment, carburetor idle speed and mixture adjustment, PCV valve inspection/replacement, emission control component testing.

Procedures Included Suspension Steering:

Ball joint inspection/replacement, tie rod end replacement, strut/shock absorber replacement, control arm bushing inspection/replacement, steering rack boot replacement, wheel bearing replacement.

Procedures Included Brake System:

Brake pad/shoe replacement, brake rotor/drum resurfacing/replacement, brake caliper/wheel cylinder overhaul, brake line inspection/replacement, master cylinder testing/replacement, brake bleeding procedures.

Procedures Included Emissions:

Testing and adjustment of the EGR valve, catalytic converter checks, O2 sensor diagnostics (if equipped), and emission control system component replacement.

Technical Depth:

Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic fluid changes and inspections to complete engine, transmission, and chassis overhauls. Includes detailed diagnostic procedures, specifications, torque values, and troubleshooting guides.

Technical Depth Diagnostics:

Includes systematic troubleshooting flowcharts for common drivability issues, starting problems, electrical faults, and cooling system malfunctions.

Technical Depth Rebuilds:

Detailed step-by-step instructions for engine internal component replacement (pistons, rings, bearings, valves), transmission gearset and synchromesh replacement, and differential overhaul.

Technical Depth Specifications:

Includes detailed specifications for all components, wear limits, clearances, pressure tests, and electrical resistance values.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Format:

PDF (Searchable Text, High Resolution for clarity)

Print Quality:

High-resolution scans ensuring clarity of diagrams and text, suitable for printing.

Binding Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Primary Engine:

1.6L (1597cc) Inline 4-cylinder, SOHC, 8-valve, Naturally Aspirated (EGI - Electronic Gasoline Injection or Carburetor)

Engine Performance 1.6L:

Approx. 80-90 HP @ 5500-6000 RPM, Approx. 90-100 lb-ft Torque @ 3000-3500 RPM (varies by injection/carburetion and market)

Engine Performance 1.8L:

Approx. 90-115 HP @ 5500-6000 RPM, Approx. 105-120 lb-ft Torque @ 3000-3500 RPM (EFI, DOHC variants available, including turbo)

Engine Performance Gtx:

Approx. 130 HP @ 6000 RPM, Approx. 137 lb-ft Torque @ 4000 RPM (Turbocharged DOHC)

Fuel System:

Electronic Gasoline Injection (EGI) or Carburetor (depending on market and trim level)

Engine Codes:

E16 (1.6L Carb/EFI), B6 (1.6L SOHC EFI), FE (1.6L SOHC EFI), BP (1.8L DOHC EFI - later models), FE-DOHC (1.8L DOHC Turbo)

Engine Codes Additional:

F8 (1.7L Diesel - less common in some markets, but available).

Bore Stroke E16:

78.0 mm x 83.6 mm

Bore Stroke B6:

78.0 mm x 83.6 mm

Bore Stroke Bp:

83.0 mm x 85.1 mm

Compression Ratio E16:

8.5:1 or 9.5:1 (depending on variant)

Compression Ratio B6:

9.3:1

Compression Ratio Bp:

9.0:1 (Naturally Aspirated), 8.0:1 (Turbo)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

5-speed Manual

Optional Transmission:

3-speed Automatic (likely)

Transmission Features:

Front-wheel drive (FWD) standard. All-wheel drive (AWD) available on select performance models (e.g., 323 GTX).

Transmission Fluid Manual:

API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 Gear Oil (refer to manual for specific fill)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Dexron II or equivalent

📐 Dimensions

Exterior Length:

Varies by body style (approx. 4000-4300 mm)

Exterior Width:

Varies by body style (approx. 1650-1700 mm)

Exterior Height:

Varies by body style (approx. 1350-1450 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 950 - 1200 kg (depending on body style, engine, and transmission)

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2400 - 2450 mm (depending on body style)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies by model and payload capacity (typically 1300-1500 kg)

Standard Tire Size:

175/70R13, 185/60R14 (common sizes)

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x114.3 mm (4x4.5 inches)

Wheel Offset:

ET 35-45 (typical)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings NHTSA:

Limited data available for this era; typically received 3-4 star ratings in frontal impact tests where tested.

Active Features:

Front ventilated disc brakes, rear drum brakes (or disc on some variants). Power-assisted steering.

Passive Features:

Seat belts (front 3-point, rear 2-point/3-point). Reinforced passenger compartment.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM stereo radio with cassette player. Manual climate control (heater and fan).

Driver Assistance Features:

No electronic driver assistance systems common in modern vehicles.

Connectivity Features:

None beyond basic radio/cassette functionality.

🔧 Maintenance

Service Intervals Oil Filter:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles (8,000 - 12,000 km) or 6 months

Service Intervals Air Filter:

Every 15,000 - 30,000 miles (24,000 - 48,000 km) or 12-24 months

Service Intervals Spark Plugs:

Every 30,000 - 40,000 miles (48,000 - 64,000 km) for standard plugs, longer for platinum

Service Intervals Timing Belt:

Every 50,000 - 60,000 miles (80,000 - 96,000 km) for interference engines (crucial to verify specific engine code, potential for severe damage if it breaks)

Engine Oil Spec:

API SG/SH, SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (depending on climate, consult manual for exact specs)

Coolant Spec:

Ethylene glycol-based, 50/50 mix with distilled water

Brake Fluid Spec:

DOT 3

Power Steering Fluid:

ATF Dexron II or equivalent (if equipped with power steering)

Known Issues:

Rust and corrosion (especially in wheel wells, rocker panels, and around windows). Timing belt failure (critical maintenance item). Carburetor issues (tuning, wear). Electrical system glitches (older wiring harnesses). Clutch wear. Suspension bushings degradation.

Torque Values Wheel Lug Nuts:

Approx. 70-90 ft-lbs (85-120 Nm)

📚 Vehicle History

Brand Heritage:

Mazda has a long history dating back to 1920, initially producing cork and later transitioning to automobiles in the 1930s. Known for its innovative rotary engine technology and a consistent focus on driver engagement ('Zoom-Zoom' philosophy). The 323 nameplate represented Mazda's core offering in the compact car segment for many years.

Model Evolution 323:

The 1987 model is part of the third generation (BF) of the Mazda Familia/323, introduced in 1980. This generation marked a significant shift to front-wheel drive, offering improved interior space and fuel efficiency compared to its predecessors. The BF generation was produced from 1980 to 1989, with a facelift and significant mechanical updates in 1985, leading into the 1987 model year.

Model Evolution Facelifts:

The 1985 facelift brought updated styling, including new front and rear fascia, revised lighting, and interior enhancements, along with mechanical improvements. The 1987 model year falls within this refreshed BF platform.

Production Years:

1980-1989 (BF Generation)

Production Locations:

Japan (main production), various overseas assembly plants